What Kind of Bike

What Kind of Bike

by Patty
(Fallingwaters, WV USA)

I am 36 years old and want to learn how to ride a motorcycle. I was wondering what is the best Harley bike for women to ride cause I'm going to have to buy one.

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What Kind of Bike

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Aug 27, 2009

What Bike is Best for You
by: Cajun Refugee

Hi - if you don't mind a man's view, I have had several female friends in the past that have asked me the same question - girls of all sizes and ages, all with little or no experience. Most were tired of riding behind their guy and wanted to get their own bike. I agree with the previous person about the 883 being a good choice, but inevitably most people tend to "outgrow" it and want something that is more customizable. Most of my friends have decided on the Harley Super Glide. This entry level softail is nimble, light, and has plenty of power with the same engine as the bigger, high-priced bikes. I see many women with the big Heritage Softails struggle to park them or handle them in traffic. But it all comes down to what you are most comfortable with. All different brands have entry level bikes but be warned, they don't hold their value as well as the Harley's (I know from experience). Best of luck to you!

Aug 25, 2009

How BIG Are You?
by: Karon

One thing I nor the previous writer asked ... how big of a person are you? I'm petite and about 125#, that's why I suggested the 250 ... less weight, easier to handle, more forgiving. If you are a taller person and heavier a 500 or 650 may be your bike. When I was choosing my "beginner" bike, I sat on a 650 and felt overwhelmed ... you may feel differently. Good luck!!!

Aug 25, 2009

Take the class, get at least a 500 then the HD
by: Rene L.

Hi,

While I agree with most of the previous writer's suggestions, primarily to take the time to put some miles in learning on something smaller than the HD (basically not to make the HOG your first), as someone who recently learned to ride, I might suggest starting out with at least a 500 or 650 engine (on a cruiser) so as not to outgrow your first bike too soon. I took the class in Dec, got my license in Feb and initially planned to just buy the same 250 Rebel that we learned on in class. My boyfriend and other experienced riders suggested that not only would I outgrow the 250 too soon, but a 250 might not be the safest bet in terms of having enough power to get out of the way if you need to. So, I settled on a bike that is small enough physically, but has a 650 engine (a Suzuki Boulevard S-40). I am very happy that I followed their advice. While I don't quite feel ready for my HOG yet (though I aspire to that as my 2nd bike), I am able to learn to become a more confident and practiced rider on something that is right for now and will last until I am ready for my next bike - I'm thinking in a year or two.

Also, if it has not already been said, also take the MSF or Harley Rider's Edge Class before you do anything else.

Have fun and ride safe!

Ren'e

Aug 25, 2009

If Harley is Your Dream Bike ...
by: Karon

If owning a Harley as your ride is your dream bike, please learn to ride on something else first ... something small. Riding a motorcycle is not anything like riding a bicycle. Lots of things you need to learn and experience BEFORE the Harley. While my personal opinion of the "Best" Harley for a woman ... would be an 883. I sat on one in the showroom near where I live not too long ago and it had great balance, my feet were flat on the ground, love the way it felt and thought it was ergonomically friendly (if a bike can be that way =) )

Start with something small, like a 250, put a couple thousand miles on it and THEN go get the Harley.

Keep me posted on your outcome!!!

Karon

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